Broccoli Cheese Patties

There’s a special kind of joy that comes from gathering in a warm kitchen, especially when something delicious is sizzling on the stove. Broccoli Cheese Patties evoke just that feeling—a rustic, golden-brown treat that has earned a cherished place in many home kitchens, including mine. I remember the first time I tasted one of these comforting patties at a community potluck in early spring. Someone’s grandmother had made them, and within minutes of arriving, they vanished from the table, leaving behind only a crumpled napkin and a shared craving for more.

What makes these patties special isn’t just the flavor—it’s the nostalgia they carry. The gentle scent of cooked broccoli blending with the sharpness of cheddar, the nutty depth of Parmesan, and the earthy sautéed onion remind many of us of family dinners where vegetables weren’t just tolerated—they were savored. These patties are a small tribute to the creativity that home cooks bring to the table, especially when trying to make something nutritious taste indulgent.

In Eastern European households, a similar style of vegetable cakes has been passed down for generations, often using ingredients from the backyard garden or farmers market. Broccoli, though not native to those traditions, fits beautifully into this mold—especially when bound together with cheese and pan-fried to crispy perfection. Whether you serve these as an after-school snack, a meatless main course, or a contribution to a brunch buffet, Broccoli Cheese Patties will be met with smiles and second helpings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Melty cheese and savory broccoli are a classic combo no one can resist.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A hearty meatless option packed with protein and fiber.
• Quick & Easy: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch and freeze for later—perfect for busy weekdays.
• Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or swap cheeses to match your taste.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 4 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped (steamed or boiled until tender)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour or almond meal
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Olive oil for pan-frying

HOW TO MAKE BROCCOLI CHEESE PATTIES:

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Cook the Broccoli
Begin by steaming or boiling your broccoli until just fork-tender. You want it to retain its bright green color but be soft enough to chop easily. Drain well and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 2: Finely Chop the Broccoli
Once cooled, chop the broccoli into small bits. This step helps ensure that the patties hold together well and gives every bite a consistent texture.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the broccoli with shredded cheddar, Parmesan, flour, beaten eggs, chopped onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until it becomes a cohesive mixture.

Step 4: Shape the Patties
Using your hands or a scoop, form small to medium-sized patties, about the size of your palm. If the mixture feels too loose, add a bit more flour.

Step 5: Pan-Fry Until Golden
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the patties in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until a golden-brown crust forms. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate before serving.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Use Leftover Broccoli: If you have leftover cooked broccoli, this recipe is a perfect way to repurpose it.
• Make Ahead: Shape the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying.
• Crispier Patties: Let the patties rest for 5 minutes before frying to help them firm up.
• Extra Flavor: Try adding a dash of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper for heat.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 patties
• Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

NOTES:

• Substitute cheddar with mozzarella for a milder, gooier bite.
• You can bake the patties at 400°F for 15–20 minutes if you prefer a lighter version.
• Great served with sour cream, Greek yogurt dip, or even spicy sriracha mayo.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:

Per patty (approximate):

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 2g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, simply use almond meal or a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar and Parmesan give the best flavor, but you can try gouda, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for variations.

How do I keep them from falling apart?
Make sure your mixture isn’t too wet. Drain the broccoli well and adjust the flour if needed.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. For longer storage, freeze cooked patties in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or air fryer.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
• Crispy Zucchini Fritters
• Zucchini Fritters
• Low Calorie Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

CONCLUSION:

There’s just something magical about Broccoli Cheese Patties. They bring together the comfort of familiar flavors and the wholesomeness of vegetables in every satisfying bite. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, meal prepping for the week, or just want something hearty and homemade, these patties deliver on all fronts. Once you try them, they’ll earn a permanent place in your kitchen rotation.

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